1. The Alienation of Labor: Baxter uses the farmhand's repetitive tasks and lack of personal connection to his work to symbolize the dehumanizing nature of industrial and capitalist society. This alienation from one's labor can lead to feelings of emptiness, isolation, and despair.
2. The Quest for Meaning and Connection: The farmhand's longing for something beyond the mundane routine suggests a universal human desire for meaning and connection. The poem explores the difficulties of finding these things in a world where work is often seen as merely a means to an end.
3. The Beauty and Power of Nature: Despite the toil and hardship, Baxter emphasizes the beauty and power of the natural world. The farmhand finds solace in the cycle of seasons, the growth of the crops, and the presence of animals. This suggests that even in a world of alienation, nature can provide a source of wonder and inspiration.
4. The Struggle for Identity and Self-Realization: The farmhand's lack of individuality and his struggle to find his place in the world reflects a broader human struggle for identity and self-realization. The poem questions the impact of societal structures and expectations on our ability to define ourselves.
5. The Importance of Simplicity and Humility: The farmhand's life is characterized by simplicity and humility. This could be interpreted as a positive value, highlighting the importance of finding joy in the small things and recognizing our place within the larger scheme of life.
6. The Spiritual Dimension of Labor: The poem's final line, "I shall never know what it means to be a man," could be seen as a poignant statement about the limitations of human understanding. It suggests that true fulfillment may lie beyond the realm of material existence and in a deeper spiritual connection.
Ultimately, the message of "Farmhand" is open to interpretation. However, it invites us to reflect on the nature of work, the search for meaning, the connection to nature, and the complexities of human existence. Baxter uses the farmhand's experience as a lens to explore these universal themes.